Christmas in Waterford

Christmas in Waterford, is very festive.

    Happy December everybody!  Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!  Because this country doesn’t celebrate that holiday, it began to look a lot like Christmas right after Halloween, it threw us for a loop since there wasn’t any fall decorating or whatnot. Christmas is a pretty big deal around here — with what they call “Winterval” coming to town which is Waterford's big event that goes on every weekend for a little over a month —with lights lighting up the town, ferris wheels, carousels, horse drawn carriages, carolers, yummy food venders, different market stalls, and the ice crisp air that bites — I have definitely perfected the art of layering my clothes. 

Seb adding a storage area outside

On the weekends we have a crepe stand outside

    It truly does feel like Christmas most of the time in town - Portico is all decorated, music to go with this wonderful season, people joyfully coming in for a coffee and a crepe, all cozy in their winter clothes, and sitting inside or outside next to the new installation of a heater on the wall!
    Speaking of Portico, Sebastian headed up a recent construction project with the help of a couple guys, who pulled two all nighters to move back the entire coffee bar about four feet.  Making room for two small tables and chairs so people can sit inside, so far all the customers love it! There of course are pros and cons for us who work behind, for it’s a tiny space — but it’s not too bad and it’s a bit warmer since were farther back from the door.  Very thankful for these guys!!  Pray that through Portico, the gospel will continue to be preached and that the people of Waterford will see the hope that we have through this season.
    School of Ministry this semester has come and gone - there was four students - four amazing people from different parts of the states, that we got the pleasure of meeting and getting to know.  They were an absolute delight to have here, sad to see them go but knowing we will see them again puts joy in our hearts!
    Currently as I write — I have a sick husband who is cozied up on the couch next to the lit fire, with a cup of tea, listening to the Sarah McLachlan Christmas album — That’s how “Christmasy” feeling we get since we have no decorations.  Don’t take that as a complaint, for we are real content with these moments (except for the sickness part). 
    Please pray for health!! Seems were playing a ping pong match with it and would like to hit a home run with the ball.

Sebastian and I walking through Town after work

    Also I have officially taken over Kids Ministry for the next three months, until Lora who is the head of it, returns from vacation back home in the states.  She has been an amazing tool to prepare me before she left for what it entails.  This last week was the first Sunday, and it went pretty smoothly — thankfully!  Prayer for me in that area would be super appreciated.
    In other news, because of the current weather, frosty and icy roads, we decided it would be smart to get a four-wheel drive.  And those of you who know Sebastian he’s all about Subaru's — so yes, we got one. With lots of prayer for the right one with the little money have to spend on one, we got hooked up with a great deal, almost a steal.  Thankful!!  So our plan is to sell our Honda which I will miss — I really like that car!!
    I apologize for the late update due to busyness — again.  We appreciate each and every one of you, for the prayers, the financial support, the encouragement, etc. We love you and wish you all a Merry Christmas!!!